GDF15 and viral encephalitis: To assess the impact of NMDs, including secondary mitochondrial dysfunction, on the specificity of the two biomarkers, this study examined the GDF15 and FGF21 concentrations in patients with non-mitochondrial neuromuscular disorders, including viral encephalitis, myasthenia gravis, DMD, and epilepsy, with the latter two being frequently associated with secondary mitochondrial dysfunction.